Katra: A 72-hour shutdown by pony operators, shopkeepers, and other business owners is set to begin on Wednesday in protest against a proposed ropeway project in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
The Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Sangarsh Samiti announced the bandh, declaring that all commercial activities in Katra would be halted during the protest.
“We are initiating a 72-hour strike in Katra from tomorrow to oppose the ropeway project. We urge all Katra residents to support this bandh,” said a spokesperson for the Samiti.
The spokesperson added that the administration had initially scheduled a meeting on December 23 but postponed it to 3pm today.
“We met the Deputy Commissioner today, who requested more time to consult higher authorities. As a result, we decided to proceed with the strike,” he explained.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board had announced last month its plans to construct a Rs 250-crore ropeway project to improve access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and those unable to navigate the 13-km trek to the shrine. The project aims to connect Tarakote Marg with Sanji Chhat in the Reasi district.
